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Vassell's injury was sustained in training at the end of last week and he joins Rolando Bianchi, who was ruled out with ankle trouble on Thursday, Emile Mpenza - who was substituted at half-time against the Royals with thigh trouble - and long-term worry Valeri Bojinov on the sidelines.

"Vassell was out with an injury. We sent him home after training on Friday," said Eriksson. He had a scan that day and he has a knee problem, which I don't think is a serious one, but I think he's out for a couple of weeks.

"As always, when you've got one injury in one part of the team, then a second and a third comes. Bianchi on Thursday, Vassell Friday and Mpenza on Saturday."

Belgian striker Mpenza was not risked in the second half but with the club's striking options looking thin Eriksson received some good news about the forward - as well as Vedran Corluka and Elano.

"Emile came off at half-time, with a thigh problem, we had a lot of problems on Saturday," the Swede told the club's website.

"Vedran Corluka had two very heavy games on very heavy pitches, so that's a risk too, but they came off the pitch early enough so not to do any further damage.

"Elano has had to do a lot of travelling again to get back (from South America) and it's always a risk when you are a little bit tired and not 100% match fit.

"But I talked to the doctor and physios and they think that maybe all will be available next weekend, but they are not sure at this stage."

Team Talk / Eurosport